Celebrating improved outcomes for cancer patients driven by research of excellence: World Cancer Research Day, 24 September

Established back in 2016 by the Spanish Association against Cancer (AECC) and officially co-promoted in collaboration with leading organizations and societes in oncology, World Cancer Research Day (WCRD) is held annually on 24 September to encourage the active involvement of citizens, institutions and leaders across various fields to support the advancement of research against cancer.

Materials for this year’s WCRD Call themed, Don’t just stand by in the face of cancer, include a powerful video addressing the question, What would happen if cancer research stood still? The response is as shocking as it is simple: by 2030 one person could die of cancer every two seconds. The clip also reminds us that advancing cancer treatment and care towards improving outcomes for our patients begins with research, and that the amazing accomplishments driven through the dedication of our talented teams across the globe are too often hidden from view.

Based on estimates calculated by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), cancer will be the leading cause of death in the coming years with statistics expected to soar to 21.6 million new cases each year by 2030. Furthermore, life years and productivity loss, together with disabilities resulting from cancer account for the largest economic cost on a global scale, compared to other causes of death.

Considering these cancer statistics and the socioeconomic burden that already weighs heavy on healthcare systems globally, accelerating cancer science and translating insights into improved outcomes for patients as rapidly as possible, must be a top priority for the entire oncology ecosystem as well as the public at large – across borders.

Aimed at raising society’s awareness and the need to recognize the major contributions made thanks to basic and translational science, the campaign seeks to ensure that cancer discovery continues to receive the backing, belief and essential funding to improve survival rates and the quality of life of those affected by the disease, now and in the future.

“Only with the much needed and continued support of cancer research of excellence will we be able to learn more about the causes of cancer, raise the bar in advancing precision medicine in oncology, potentiate strategies aimed at prevention and early detection, as well as improve diagnosis,” observes VHIO’s Director, Josep Tabernero.

He continues, “I take this opportunity to not only applaud the AECC for leading World Cancer Research Day, but also personally thank the Association for the support it gives to countless researchers and groups across Spain, including several at VHIO. Such essential funding drives the science that continues to mark amazing progress towards solving cancer sooner.”

To discover more about World Cancer Research Day and lend your support to this important cause by signing the World Declaration for Cancer Research, please visit: www.worldcancerresearchday.com.